What Is the Standard Deduction?
In plain English
The standard deduction is a set amount the IRS allows taxpayers to subtract from adjusted gross income without documenting individual expenses. It varies by filing status and is adjusted annually for inflation. Claiming it is simpler than itemizing and is the better choice for the majority of taxpayers whose qualifying expenses fall below the threshold.
How Much Is the Standard Deduction for Each Filing Status?
For 2026, the standard deduction is approximately $15,000 for single filers and married filing separately, $22,500 for heads of household, and $30,000 for married filing jointly and qualifying surviving spouses. Additional amounts apply for taxpayers who are 65 or older or legally blind, increasing the deduction further.
Who Benefits Most From Taking the Standard Deduction?
Taxpayers whose itemizable expenses — mortgage interest, state taxes, charitable contributions, and medical costs above the threshold — total less than the standard deduction benefit from taking it. After the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act nearly doubled the standard deduction, roughly 90% of filers now choose it over itemizing.
What Are the Limitations of the Standard Deduction?
You cannot take both the standard deduction and itemize in the same year. If you have large mortgage interest, significant charitable gifts, or high state and local taxes, itemizing may yield greater savings. You also cannot claim the standard deduction if you are a nonresident alien or if you file a return for less than 12 months due to a change in accounting period.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim the standard deduction and still deduct IRA contributions?
Yes. IRA contributions, student loan interest, HSA contributions, and a few other 'above-the-line' deductions are separate from the standard deduction and reduce your adjusted gross income regardless of which deduction method you choose.
Does the standard deduction change every year?
Yes, the IRS adjusts it annually for inflation. Checking the current year's amount before filing ensures you are using the correct figure. Even small annual increases can meaningfully reduce taxable income over time.
Keep exploring
Related terms
Itemized Deductions
Itemized deductions let you list specific qualifying expenses to reduce taxable income instead of taking the standard deduction. They benefit taxpayers with large mortgage interest, medical bills, or charitable contributions.
Tax Deduction
A tax deduction reduces your taxable income, lowering the amount of income subject to tax. The actual tax savings depend on your marginal tax bracket.
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
Adjusted gross income is your total income minus specific above-the-line deductions. It is the key figure on your tax return that determines eligibility for many credits, deductions, and financial programs.
Tax Filing Status
Your tax filing status determines your tax bracket thresholds, standard deduction amount, and eligibility for various credits and deductions. Choosing the correct status is one of the most impactful decisions in tax planning.
Tax Bracket
Tax brackets are the income ranges at which different marginal rates apply under the U.S. progressive tax system. Only income within each bracket is taxed at that bracket's rate.